Democracy Quote by Bernard Crick
““Man's inclination to justice makes democracy possible; but man's capacity for injustice makes it necessary.' The optimism we need to prevent ourselves from destroying our own democratic freedoms and, indeed, our own human habitat must be based on reasoned pessimism.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Democracy: A Very Short Introduction, 1995
Human nature contains both a drive for fairness and a tendency toward wrongdoing, so democracy works only when we recognize both and temper optimism with realistic caution.
In simple terms: Justice and injustice coexist, requiring balanced hope.
Balance hope with realistic caution.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- citizen engagement
- education reform
- environmental stewardship
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies foster justice while acknowledging human flaws?
- What safeguards prevent optimism from becoming complacency?
Overly pessimistic views can paralyze action and erode trust.